Collection: Liberty Seated Half Dollar (1839 - 1891)

The Liberty Seated Half Dollar, designed by Christian Gobrecht, holds a distinguished place in U.S. numismatic history. Spanning over five decades, this series reflects both artistic evolution and historical milestones, making it a favorite among collectors.

Key Specifications

• Designer: Christian Gobrecht
• Issue Dates: 1839–1891
• Composition:
  • 90% silver, 10% copper
• Diameter: 30.6 mm
• Weight:
  • 13.36 grams (1839–1853)
  • 12.44 grams (1853–1873)
  • 12.50 grams (1873–1891)
• Edge: Reeded
• Mintages:
  • Business Strikes: Varies by type (see details below)
  • Proofs: Rare, with limited production across types

Design Highlights and Historical Context

Type 1: No Motto (1839–1853, 1856–1866)

This initial design featured Miss Liberty seated on a rock, holding a liberty cap on a pole and a shield inscribed with LIBERTY.

• Notable Changes:
  • Early 1839 issues lacked drapery on Liberty’s arm, which was added later that year.
  • In 1842, reverse lettering was enlarged.
• Historical Significance:
  • Weight reduction in 1853 (due to rising silver prices) introduced arrows and rays to some issues.
• Collectibility:
  • Common in grades from Good to Extremely Fine, with AU examples frequently available.
  • Uncirculated pieces are scarcer, with superb specimens being rare.

Type 2: Arrows and Rays (1853)

To signify a reduction in weight, arrows were added beside the date, and rays encircled the eagle on the reverse.

• Key Details:
  • Produced only in 1853 at Philadelphia and New Orleans.
  • This one-year design is a standout for type collectors.
• Collectibility:
  • Common in mid-grades, with Uncirculated coins being scarce. Superb pieces are rare.

Type 3: No Motto, Arrows (1854–1855)

Similar to Type 2 but with the rays removed.

• Historical Context:
  • Continued weight reduction led to this simplified design.
• Notable Variety:
  • The 1855/4 overdate is a prized collector's item.
• Collectibility:
  • Readily available in grades from Good to Extremely Fine. Uncirculated coins are scarcer, but more common than the 1853 type.

Type 4: With Motto (1866–1873, 1875–1891)

Following the Civil War, the motto IN GOD WE TRUST was added to the reverse on a ribbon above the eagle.

• Historical Significance:
  • Reflects a shift in national sentiment post-war.
  • Low mintages from 1879–1890 due to focus on silver dollar production.
• Collectibility:
  • Common dates (e.g., 1875–1878 Philadelphia issues) are accessible in mid-grades.
  • AU coins are scarcer, while Uncirculated and superb pieces are rare.

Type 5: With Motto, Arrows (1873–1874)

To reflect an increase in weight, arrows were added beside the date.

• Historical Context:
  • Arrows were used only for these two years, signifying a unique type.
• Rare Issue:
  • The 1874-CC is a standout rarity, with just 59,000 minted.
• Collectibility:
  • Common in mid-grades, with Extremely Fine and AU examples being scarcer. Uncirculated coins are rare.

Why Collect Liberty Seated Half Dollars?

1. Historical Significance: This series chronicles key moments in U.S. history, from the California Gold Rush to post-Civil War recovery.
2. Variety: With multiple types and unique variations, there’s something for every collector.
3. Availability: While rarities exist, many dates are accessible in mid-grades, making the series ideal for both beginners and advanced collectors.

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